Pandémie Québec published a useful decision chart that describes when you should stay home, go to the doctor or go to a hospital emergency room. Download the PDF chart or read the chart details, just below.
Probably Just a Cold: Rest at Home
If the adult or child suspected of having the flu does not have a fever (i.e., temperature is less than 38°C (100.4°F), but is experiencing a sore throat, runny nose, stuffy nose and/or a cough without other symptoms typical of the flu, then it's more likely a cold than the flu. Taking it easy at home is the recommendation of choice.
If the adult or child developed a sudden fever (i.e., temperature is 38°C (100.4°F) or higher) accompanied by a cough, sore throat, headache, significant fatigue and muscle aches, then there's a good chance it's the flu. It appears to be mild, but in case of doubt, dial 811 to speak to an Info-Santé nurse.
Visit the Doctor if You Have These Symptoms
If an adult or child is exhibiting a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) and belongs to a high risk group more likely to experience complications -- children ages 2 and under, seniors, pregnant women, asthmatics, heart patients, people with kidney disorders and people with chronic conditions that result in lowered immune systems -- should not hesitate to visit one of these Montreal clinics or temporary Montreal flu clinics to be on the safe side.
As for adults and children with a generally clean bill of health, a sustained fever that lasts more than 72 hours is reason enough to see a doctor as well as a fever combined with one or more of these symptoms: shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, painful breathing, vomiting for more than four hours. A child with a fever who is too quiet and less active than normal, who refuses to play or is agitated should also be brought in to see a doctor.
Go To the Emergency Room Now / Call 911 If Necessary
If the following symptoms appear, don't think twice, just get to a hospital emergency room immediately: fever in an infant under 3 months old requires immediate attention and a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) accompanied by one of the following symptoms also requires prompt emergency action:
- difficulty breathing that persists or worsens
- blue lips
- difficulty moving
- severe neck stiffness
- drowsiness, confusion, disorientation, or difficulty being roused
- convulsions
- no urination for 12 hours
